THE SOCIETY'S OSTRICHES. 
175 
to bring about a successful issue to this laudable and 
patriotic attempt of the Society to acclimatise the bird, 
and to render its introduction into Australia *a source of 
national industry and wealth. 
From the severe droughts to which this continent is so 
frequently liable, and from the heavy stocking with sheep 
and cattle to which it is in general subjected, irrespective 
of the natural and unnatural enemies in the form of man 
with his advancing civilization, with which it would have 
to contend, we think it would be quite impossible ever to 
acclimatise the ostrich here in a wild condition, even if 
such an attempt should be thought desirable. 
OFFICER BRS. 
Murray Downs, 14itli June, 1878. 
